Osteopathic medicine is a form of medical practice that emphasizes the physical manipulation of the body to treat illness or injury. It was developed in the late 19th century by Andrew Taylor Still, who believed that traditional medicine focused too much on symptomatic treatment rather than addressing the underlying causes of disease.
Osteopathic physicians receive training similar to allopathic (traditional) medical doctors, but they also study osteopathic manipulative therapy, a form of hands-on care that can help relieve pain and improve function in patients. This approach involves using gentle pressure and stretching techniques to move muscles and joints into their proper positions, which can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Osteopathic medicine is often associated with a holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of considering the whole person rather than just their symptoms. This includes taking into account factors such as diet, exercise, stress levels, and environmental influences when developing treatment plans for patients.